His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a message of congratulations to Choummaly Sayasone, President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and Thongsing Thammavong, the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, for the government and people of Lao PDR on the occasion of their National Day.

In the message to President Choummaly Sayasone, His Majesty highlighted the close and warm bilaterial relations shared between Brunei and Lao PDR, especially as regional partners in Asean.

In the message to Thongsing Thammavong, His Majesty stated that it has been a pleasure working with him this past year in the spirit of warm friendship and close cooperation, including during the recent Asean Summit in Bali.

In ending the messages, His Majesty extended the very best wishes to Choummaly Sayasone and Thongsing Thammavong for their continued good health and happiness as well as for the progress and prosperity of Lao PDR.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, also sent a similar congratulatory message to his counterpart, Dr Thongloun Sisoulith, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lao PDR, for the government and people of Lao PDR on their National Day.

His Royal Highness added that it has been a pleasure working with him and sharing his company at the many regional gatherings over this past year, and HRH looks forward to continuing their work together to strengthen the countries' much valued friendship and cooperation. - Borneo Bulletin (2nd December 2011)